Blue Yonder is a global leader in digital supply chain transformation. With AI-driven solutions and a unified platform, Blue Yonder empowers global retailers, manufacturers, and logistics providers to optimize every aspect of their supply chain operations, fostering agility, customer satisfaction, and sustainable growth.
Celeste White serves as the Vice President and Head of Global Analyst Relations at Blue Yonder, where she brings more than two decades of AR experience. Widely recognized as an esteemed leader within the industry, Celeste has transformed the analyst relations (AR) program since joining Blue Yonder just over two years ago.
Celeste brought a fresh perspective and strategic vision to Blue Yonder. She quickly identified areas for improvement and forged partnerships, notably with Spotlight, to implement an insights-driven methodology. Under Celeste’s leadership, the program’s maturity increased, bolstering engagement with analysts and improving market understanding and strategic alignment within the organization.
Q: Can you share the circumstances that led to changes in Blue Yonder’s Analyst Relations (AR) program, and how did Spotlight come into the picture?
A: As Blue Yonder transitioned over the last 2 years, so did the analyst relations program. Recognizing the need to maintain a strong AR function, Spotlight was brought in to manage the program temporarily while the company sought a seasoned leader to take charge of the department at the beginning of 2022.
Q: Tell us about your background, Celeste. How do your 20+ years of experience in AR contribute to your role as VP of Global AR at Blue Yonder?
A: With over two decades in AR, my experience in both analyst relations and supply chain domains is accelerating Blue Yonder’s positioning in the technology landscape. Leveraging my relationships with the analysts, proven track record, and expertise in messaging and positioning, I aim to provide a clear path for advancing the maturity of Blue Yonder’s AR program. My deep expertise in supply chain domains, strategic collaboration with C-level leaders, and a commitment to insight-driven decision-making contribute to the overall and continued success.
Q: What are the key success factors you implement to mature Blue Yonder’s AR program into a strategic one?
A: Ruthless prioritization is crucial; we focus on strategic initiatives that truly matter to both the business and analysts, delivering insights and enhancing efficiency. Aligning the AR strategy with the company’s overarching business goals ensures relevance and impact. Delivering timely and relevant insights back to the business, along with introducing metrics to measure the program’s value, are key elements of our success.
Q: How do you measure the maturity of the AR program, and what are some indicators of its success?
A: Several indicators showcase the program’s maturity. I began with a maturity assessment of the organization upon arrival. Since then we secured a seat at the table during strategic planning meetings, demonstrating our importance. Company executives actively seek out analyst insights, highlighting a growing demand and reliance on the AR function. The program has expanded its reach to serve a broader set of key stakeholders, fostering a more interconnected network within the company. Key stakeholders are beginning to perceive analysts as trusted advisors, indicating a high level of trust and collaboration.
Q: Could you elaborate on the role of the partnership with Spotlight in transforming Blue Yonder’s AR program?
A: Spotlight played a critical role in managing the AR program during a transitional period. Their collaboration allowed us to maintain continuity and focus on achieving our AR objectives. I continue to utilize Spotlight as an extension of my team, helping with execution, insights, and strategic alignment, providing Blue Yonder with ongoing efficiency, and overall effectiveness.
Q: How does Blue Yonder’s AR program contribute to the company’s mission in the supply chain industry?
A: The AR program is pivotal in supporting Blue Yonder’s mission to revolutionize the supply chain industry. Strong AR efforts boost visibility, shape industry perception, and provide valuable customer and market insights. This translates to better-informed product development, targeted marketing, and ultimately, increased sales and market share for Blue Yonder. Our commitment to maintaining a high-performing AR function, along with a focus on business goals, ensures that the program remains a cornerstone of success for the company as it continues to evolve and become the supply chain operating system for the world.
Under Celeste’s leadership, the Blue Yonder AR program has gone through a significant transformation. Her focus on prioritization and aligning to the company’s business goals has revitalized the program, driving clarity, stability, and impactful engagement with analysts. By leveraging her extensive background and forging a strategic partnership with Spotlight, Celeste has implemented an insights-driven methodology that has elevated the program’s maturity and amplified its impact at Blue Yonder.
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